Employing DD in my business

[HMSSophie]

I own a small but successful business. We employ 10 people and have about 50 self employed consultants. Looks like we will be ok in a covid world. For 4 years I have had no day to day involvement as we have an MD and a Board of which I am the Chair.

My DD is a young adult who has sought a creative arts career and therefore has been earning her living in hospitality. She got 4 As at A level, has done bits and bobs of summer work at my business back in the day.

We need to take on an entry level administrator. She could do this job.

How would you feel if your business owner did that?

I'm canvassing opinions as I don't want my DD to be picked on or blamed for the fact she is very fortunate. I don't live with her, and I know she could do the work well. I don't have any involvement at all with the area in the business she would work in.

I'm sure if any parent was in a position like you are, they would help their children.

I have worked with a few adults who are 'children' of the boss. Everyone is always lovely to them however I think there is always some feeling of 'it's the bosses daughter', 'got the job because of the parents' even if it's not said aloud.

That said, is she thick skinned? Does she even have to mention that you are her parent? The good thing is you wouldn't be working together directly. As long as she has a thick skin, and will work hard to prove herself I'm sure it'll be fine.

Will they know she is your dd? I worked with a graduate and her dad was a board member. I knew but no one else did for a good few years.

I would absolutely give her the job.
You are putting her in an entry level position not on the board. I cant imagine people would have many issues with that, and I cant think of any parent who wouldn't do the same.

We employ Dd in our business, we were also initially worried about other employees reaction but as Dd is perfectly capable of doing a good job, we felt it was ultimately our decision.
It’s worked out very well, she’s become part of the team quickly.

You should 100% give her the job. As long as she doesn't take liberties because her mum owns the business everyone will be fine with it

I worked in my mum’s business post university whilst I saved for travelling and applied for graduate schemes. Yes I’m sure people said I’d only got the job due to Mum (which was true TBF) but I worked hard, was friendly to everyone, and never had any problems with colleagues or my work. If you think she’d want the job and can do it then I really don’t see a problem with doing this and I think the team there would understand and treat her on her own merits too.

Phew that's a relief. It's not what she wants to do - but without a degree and wanting to work in the performing arts, and with hospitality down the pan, it may be her best bet. I'll see what she says thanks

I’d give her the job but speak to the MD to make sure that her line manager holds her to the same standards as every other employee. And of course hire her on the appropriate salary has same contract.

Once she has some experience and has gained the relevant skills I’d encourage her to move onto another organisation, perhaps one in the creative arts.